Campaign for Better Transport has commented on reports that Government is to announce progress with high speed rail and devolution of responsibility for transport in northern England.
"This announcement is good news for cities like Leeds and Manchester who've been crying out for the powers and budget to transform their transport networks. The challenge will be to make sure this is felt not just in the big cities, but right across the north. We now need to see details of the powers Whitehall is offering, and how quickly they can be rolled out."
"The Chancellor needs to make sure progress with high speed rail goes hand in hand with upgrading the rest of the North's rail network. Many passengers are still travelling on ageing diesel Pacers trains and some have even seen ticket prices double on evening Northern Rail services. They will be hoping for coherent improvements from the new Northern and TransPennine Express franchises this year, not just grand plans for HS3."
2. Campaign for Better Transport <http://www.bettertransport.org.uk > is the UK's leading authority on sustainable transport. We champion transport that improve people's lives and reduce environmental damage. Our campaigns push innovative, practical policies at local and national levels. Campaign for Better Transport Charitable Trust is a registered charity (1101929).